<h1>Rural Employment Scheme Sees Budget Rise but Fund Releases Dip Since 2020-21, Commitment Remains Strong</h1> The government disclosed that despite increased budget allocations for the rural employment guarantee scheme over the past five years, actual funds released have declined since the peak in 2020-21. While the highest release occurred during the Covid lockdown year, subsequent years saw decreasing disbursements, with the 2024-25 release falling slightly below the budget estimate for the first time in five years. The government emphasized its commitment to sustaining the scheme, maintaining the highest-ever budget allocation of Rs 86,000 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26. As of mid-2025, nearly all eligible rural households were offered employment, with significant person-days generated. Additionally, states and union territories have received substantial wage payments, and all pending wage liabilities for 2024-25 were cleared at the start of 2025-26, underscoring ongoing support for rural livelihood security through the program.